A delightful twist on a classic Southern dish, combining green beans, potatoes, and smoky bacon for a comforting side.
Prepare the green beans by trimming the ends and cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Fresh green beans provide the best flavor, but frozen ones can be a convenient alternative.
Peel and dice the potatoes into evenly sized chunks.
Cutting the potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking.
In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Cooking the bacon first allows you to use the rendered fat for added flavor.
Add the potatoes to the pot and sauté them in the bacon fat for a few minutes.
Sautéing the potatoes in bacon fat enhances their flavor.
Add the green beans to the pot along with enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmering the vegetables together allows the flavors to meld.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the butter until melted.
Adding butter at the end gives the dish a rich, creamy finish.
Crumble the cooked bacon over the top before serving.
Adding the bacon at the end keeps it crispy and flavorful.